Cocktails Hacks: 5 BEST Angostura Bitters Substitutes

Angostura bitters are the secret sauce in iconic cocktails. But sometimes, you just can’t find them on your shelf. No biggie.

We’ve all been there, staring at our bar cart, wondering how to whip up magic without the magical ingredient.

Good news, though. There are some pretty awesome stand-ins that can save your cocktail game.

Think outside the bottle. This list is going to be your cocktail hack, transforming “Oh no” moments into “Aha!” ones.

Welcome to the club where missing ingredients spark even better creations. Ready to mix things up?

What’s Angostura Bitters?

Angostura bitters are a mix of aromatic herbs and spices originating from the town of Angostura in Venezuela.

The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it is known to include cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bitter oranges.

Angostura bitters were first created in the early 19th century by German doctor Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert.

They were originally intended as a medicinal tonic, but Siegert soon realized that they had potential as a culinary ingredient.

Angostura bitters are often used to add depth of flavor to cocktails and other drinks.

They are also used in cooking, particularly in dishes from the Caribbean and South America.

A little goes a long way with Angostura bitters, so start with just a few drops and add more to taste.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Angostura Bitters

If you’re looking for a substitute for the distinctive taste of Angostura bitters, there are several other options that can provide similar aromas and flavors.

Here is a look at five of the best substitutes for Angostura bitters:

1 – Peychaud’s Bitters

Peychaud’s bitters are a type of aromatic bitter that is traditionally used in cocktails.

It is made from a blend of herbs and spices, including anise, licorice, and peppermint.

The flavor is slightly sweet and citrusy, with a distinct herbal finish.

Peychaud’s bitters can be used as a substitute for Angostura bitters in cocktails.

When substituting, keep in mind that Peychaud’s bitters are more strongly flavored, so you may want to use less than the recipe calls for.

You can also experiment with different proportions to find the flavor that you prefer.

2 – Boker’s Bitters

Boker’s Bitters is a non-alcoholic bitter that has been produced since 1828.

It is made from a variety of herbs and spices, including gentian root, quinine, and orange peel.

The bitters have a strong, aromatic flavor that is often used to add depth and complexity to cocktails.

Boker’s Bitters can be substituted for Angostura bitters in any recipe.

The two bitters are very similar in taste and texture, making Boker’s a great option for those who prefer not to use alcohol.

To use Boker’s Bitters in place of Angostura, simply add the same amount of bitters to your cocktail recipe.

You may find that the flavor of your cocktail is slightly different, but the overall taste will be similar.

3 – Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6

Regan’s Orange Bitters No.

6 is a type of aromatic bitter that is used to add flavor and depth to cocktails.

The bitters are made with a blend of orange peel, spices, and botanicals, and they have a deep, rich flavor that can be used to enhance many different types of drinks.

The bitters are also very versatile and can be used in place of Angostura bitters in cocktails.

To substitute Regan’s Orange Bitters for Angostura bitters, simply add the same amount of bitters to your cocktail recipe.

The orange flavor of Regan’s Orange Bitters will add a unique twist to your favorite recipes.

4 – Amaro

Amaro is an Italian herbal liqueur that is often used as a digestif.

It is bittersweet, with a complex flavor that can include notes of citrus, herbs, and spice.

Amaro is typically served neat or on the rocks, but it can also be used in cocktails in place of Angostura bitters.

When substituting Amaro for Angostura bitters, use it sparingly, as the flavor is very concentrated.

Start with just a few dashes and add more to taste.

You may also want to reduce the amount of sweetener in your cocktail recipe, as Amaro is already quite sweet.

Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or using it to add depth to a cocktail, Amaro is a delightful way to end a meal.

5 – Campari

Campari is a type of bitter that originates from Italy.

It is made from a blend of different herbs and spices, including bitter orange, rhubarb, and quinine.

Campari has a strong, distinctive flavor that is both bitter and sweet.

It is often used to add flavor to cocktails, as well as to make aperitifs and digestifs.

The taste of Campari can be somewhat acquired, but once you get used to it, it can be quite enjoyable.

In terms of texture, Campari is thick and syrupy.

It is also very potent, so a little goes a long way.

If you are looking for a substitute for Angostura bitters, Campari is a good option.

It will replicate the bittersweet flavor of Angostura bitters and add a similar depth of flavor to your cocktail.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are plenty of substitutes for Angostura bitters that you can use in your cocktails.

Boker’s Bitters, Regan’s Orange Bitters No.6, Amaro, and Campari, are all great options.

Each has its own unique flavor profile that will add depth and complexity to your drinks.

Just remember to start with small amounts, as the flavors of these bitters can be strong.

With a little experimentation, you’ll soon find the perfect substitute for Angostura bitters to use in your favorite recipes.